Charles Jenkins is a pastor and an award-winning songwriter and producer. The Chicago native was previously the senior pastor of Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church. Jenkins discusses faith and fatherhood with rolling out.
What legacy are you leaving for your children and the children of your community?
The opening phrase of Proverbs 13:22 says, “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.” The scriptural context of this passage is to leave behind both resources and information. Every opportunity I get, I am working to pass on opportunity through education, inspiration, exposure and tangible investment. One of the greatest gifts you can give a child is the gift of how to fish (lessons), a fishing pole, bait (tools), and a baseline of resources (money). Unencumbered opportunity with wisdom is priceless.
Why is it important to expose children to education and valuable skills?
Education seeds possibility. Knowing fuels doing. Exposure academically feeds skill sets. It prepares a child for what they may not yet know is possible. Education and exposure to varying skill sets mean options for a career or for life in general. It’s true — an idle mind is the devil’s workshop.
As a father and a life coach, describe your playbook.
My playbook would mirror versatility and unpredictability. It ranges from a wishbone formation, to an I formation, to an option formation, using college football terminology. It depends on the moment. But the central themes are success, purpose, right and good.
Which fatherhood experiences have taught you the most about yourself?
Being a father can teach you a lot about you. Seeing my middle baby travel internationally
reintroduces me to how protective I am. Watching my youngest child shows me my jokester side. Seeing my oldest shows me my meticulous, particular side. I could go on, but it’s amazing how that works.
What insightful advice would you suggest about building a network?
Building a network is about being present. My Rolodex is a result of being in diverse rooms filled with the right people. Life is driven by relationships and friendships. I believe authentically serving and helping others is the most dynamic source of influence and power. Credibility is built on your service and work. Your network potential is based on what you offer as a person holistically. If your hand is always out, you will be perceived as a leech. If your hand is always helping someone up, you will be welcomed as an asset.
